90 years of style: The Queen’s life in fashion

Celebrate Her Majesty’s birthday with a fascinating line-up of iconic dresses

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Want to step inside The Queen’s residences and get a close-up look at her wardrobe? Well make sure you’re first in line at Buckingham Palace for your chance to see Fashioning a Reign: 90 Years of Style From The Queen’s Wardrobe at the Summer Opening of the State Rooms. It’s a rare opportunity to cast your eyes over the lavish detail of sparkly dresses and ceremonial outfits, as this unique exhibition features some of the most prized royal fashion pieces.

Showcasing many of Her Majesty’s most iconic dresses since the 1920s, you’ll swoon over outfits designed by great British couturier Sir Norman Hartnell who created both her opulent Coronation ensemble and the exquisite ivory silk wedding dress that features a 4.6m train inspired by a Botticelli painting. It’s the first time these two stunning dresses have been shown together.

The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh on their wedding day.

Not only is Fashioning a Reign a spectacular journey through The Queen’s wardrobe, but it’s also our nation’s history. Be wowed by everything from memorable pieces worn for military occasions to more down-to-earth family celebrations as Queen Elizabeth II’s life in fashion is charted in this one-of-a-kind royal fashion show.

As well as Hartnell’s iconic gowns, the exhibition highlights The Queen’s support of British couture and millinery on a world stage, with important pieces on show by renowned designers Sir Hardy Amies and Ian Thomas. Fashioning a Reign includes two other exhibitions of Her Majesty’s attire at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh (until 16 October) and Windsor Castle (17 September to 8 January), showing around 150 outfits in total, with each display tailored to its location.

The Queen’s Coronation dress, designed by Norman Hartnell.

We can’t think of a more fabulously fitting way to join in The Queen’s special birthday celebrations. You’ll find us hanging out near the fabulous collection of hats!

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